Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT

Photo of Aware Recovery Care, Psychiatrist in Wallingford, CT
Aware Recovery Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
You don’t need to put your life on hold. We bring addiction treatment to you so you can heal at home. Now serving residents of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Call us to get started today.
You don’t need to put your life on hold. We bring addiction treatment to you so you can heal at home. Now serving residents of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Call us to get started today.
(475) 255-7312 View (475) 255-7312
Photo of Avi Mitra, Psychiatrist in Wallingford, CT
Avi Mitra
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
(203) 590-5778 View (203) 590-5778
Photo of Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wallingford, CT 06492  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
(203) 403-6580 View (203) 403-6580
Photo of Holly Hillburn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Holly Hillburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
(860) 467-0559 View (860) 467-0559
Photo of Lisa Killips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Lisa Killips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06494  (Online Only)
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
(860) 590-8236 View (860) 590-8236
Photo of Fredo J Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Fredo J Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 901-0520 View (860) 901-0520

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gina M Reiners, Psychiatric Nurse in Wallingford, CT
Gina M Reiners
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
(203) 819-7785 View (203) 819-7785
Photo of ABetterU LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
ABetterU LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
(203) 590-8859 View (203) 590-8859
Photo of Celeste Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Celeste Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
My personal experience gives me the ability to be more empathic with the clients that I treat. I am able to bring a different perspective to treating my clients, as I have been on both sides. I am hardworking and dedicated, always looking for additional training to broaden my knowledge and better my care. I'm dedicated to the well-being of my clients and helping them achieve their optimal level of emotional wellness. I am ready to embark on the journey of collaborating and welcoming input from client's to help them become successful.
My personal experience gives me the ability to be more empathic with the clients that I treat. I am able to bring a different perspective to treating my clients, as I have been on both sides. I am hardworking and dedicated, always looking for additional training to broaden my knowledge and better my care. I'm dedicated to the well-being of my clients and helping them achieve their optimal level of emotional wellness. I am ready to embark on the journey of collaborating and welcoming input from client's to help them become successful.
(334) 463-3660 View (334) 463-3660
Photo of Dr. Tonya Goodman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Dr. Tonya Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
Every client deserves to heal their mind, body, and soul. I understand that it is impossible to function at your best if your physical and mental health are not aligned. I aim to help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms by combining Western and holistic practices to treat the whole person. I work with each client's healthcare team to promote a collaborative approach to optimize every client's recovery and remission time. My goal is to create a safe and open space where you feel respected, heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment.
Every client deserves to heal their mind, body, and soul. I understand that it is impossible to function at your best if your physical and mental health are not aligned. I aim to help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms by combining Western and holistic practices to treat the whole person. I work with each client's healthcare team to promote a collaborative approach to optimize every client's recovery and remission time. My goal is to create a safe and open space where you feel respected, heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment.
(203) 652-8057 View (203) 652-8057
Photo of Diana Lankenau, Psychiatric Nurse in Wallingford, CT
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
(786) 743-4825 View (786) 743-4825
Photo of Raymond Gunn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Raymond Gunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
(475) 234-0096 View (475) 234-0096
Photo of John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC, Psychiatrist in Wallingford, CT
John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
(475) 253-3762 View (475) 253-3762
Photo of David A. Krulee, Psychiatrist in Wallingford, CT
David A. Krulee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
(860) 631-4415 View (860) 631-4415
Photo of A Brand New Day, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
A Brand New Day, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
(475) 244-7556 View (475) 244-7556
Photo of Solstice Healthcare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Solstice Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(959) 265-4524 View (959) 265-4524
Photo of Betsy LaRose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Betsy LaRose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Meriden, CT 06450
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 813-3562 View (860) 813-3562
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
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Photo of Willow Treatment and Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Willow Treatment and Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
(475) 267-1865 View (475) 267-1865
Photo of Olanike Idowu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wallingford, CT
Olanike Idowu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP
Verified Verified
Prospect, CT 06712
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(475) 255-6394 View (475) 255-6394

See more therapy options for Wallingford

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Behavioral Issues
67% Medication Management
50% Grief
50% Other

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wallingford?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.